#278: Other Applications
1. According to the Rema, one may not blow dust off of an old book or bookshelf due to the melachah of zoreh. One may also not blow excess confectionary sugar or powder off of a doughnut on Shabbat (The 39 Melochos, p.376). According to the more lenient opinions quoted previously, these actions are permitted.
2. According to all opinions, it is permitted to use a spray can on Shabbat, such as those used for deodorant, hairspray, or air fresheners. Although one sprays the contents into the air, this is not considered zoreh because the scattering does not occur by force of the wind or by blowing with one’s mouth, but rather through the pressure of the liquid as it goes through the nozzle head of the container (R. Shimon Eider, “Halachos of Shabbos,” p.131, citing R. Moshe Feinstein; Minchat Yitzchak 6:26).We should note that using hairspray on Shabbat may be problematic in specific situations for other reasons, specifically when hardening an existing hairstyle, and will be addressed in more detail at a future date.
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Dedicated by Fran Broder as a zechus for the hostages to be released safely to their families and may everlasting peace come to Eretz Yisrael in the merit of learning Hilchos Shabbos.
